Senior Center Without Walls

Posted Sep 24, 2012

The ability to live in one’s own home-wherever that might be- for as long as confidently and comfortably possible is the goal of many seniors. This aging in place offers challenges.

Scientific studies have shown that social isolation and loneliness can worsen a wide variety of physical and mental aliments-from depression to chronic disease. The Senior Center Without Walls is a the brainchild of a gerontologist who saw how crippling the health effects of isolation could be for older adults whose social lives were curtailed by wheelchairs, ill health, and the death of friends. This program is by telephone, connecting California elders through activities, friendship and community through telephone groups for adults over 60 all from the comfort of home and is free. Today the center offers nearly 70 classes spanning poetry, health information, trivia, travel movies and other informative and eclectic classes. Participants even celebrate birthdays together.

Visit the website to see all the classes available and the ease of use for seniors simple by registering and using their telephone.

Library Beyond Walls is the libraries outreach program that brings library services to those patrons who are not able to visit one of our branches. Committed volunteers visit each senior to bring not only library services but also a connection of friendship. Both of these programs connect people. I was fortunate to be the coordinator of this program for three years. I met amazing seniors who at even at 90 loved to read and discuss with their volunteers. The gift of friendship was often more important than the book

If you know a senior who would love a personal connection contact either one of these programs and share the love!

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